Community to be updated on Eyre Peninsula’s electricity supply options

ElectraNet has released a draft report as part of its assessment to upgrade the Eyre Peninsula’s electricity supply, identifying the option which delivers the greatest benefits to the community.

This option will be presented at a public forum in Port Lincoln on 20 November, and includes the construction of a new double-circuit 275 kV power line between Cultana and Yadnarie, and a new 132 kV double-circuit power line between Yadnarie and Port Lincoln.

ElectraNet Chief Executive, Steve Masters said the draft report indicates that the construction of new power lines and other associated infrastructure will deliver the best outcomes for the region through a reliable electricity supply and a network that is well-placed to cater for future increases in demand.

“Sections of the power line from Cultana to Port Lincoln are more than 50 years old and nearing the end of their functional life, which means they will need components replaced in the next few years,” Mr Masters said.

“In late April 2017 we released a consultation report with five credible options to upgrade the power supply, and since then we have undertaken detailed investigations into which option will best meet the needs of the region and customers.

“Following these investigations and assistance from a range of stakeholders, the results of our analysis, including the option that delivers the greatest net benefits, will be presented to the community for feedback.

“The construction of a new double-circuit 275 kV power line between Cultana and Yadnarie, and a new 132 kV double-circuit power line between Yadnarie and Port Lincoln, will provide the Eyre Peninsula with a reliable power supply and the ability to meet the demands of proposed new mines and wind farms.

“If the option is approved in due course by the Australian Energy Regulator (AER), it is expected to cost approximately $300 million. Subject to receiving all necessary approvals, the option would be operational by the end of 2020.

“This option is estimated to deliver net market benefits of $120 million over 20-years and add less than $3 to the transmission component of the annual electricity bill for the average residential customer in South Australia.”

As part of the community consultation process, interested stakeholders have the opportunity to provide feedback on the preferred option over the next six weeks.

ElectraNet anticipates that a final recommendation on the supply options will be announced in April 2018.

Public forums will be held in Port Lincoln on Monday, 20 November and in Adelaide on Monday, 27 November. For more information about the project, to read the most recent report and to provide feedback visit www.electranet.com.au.